The Age of Napoleon Podcast

Napoleon faces tough fights and his first defeats as commander-in-chief in Italy. The assault on the bridge at Arcole is examined. The events of the fall of 1796 and the dire situation in the besieged city of Montua are explored. Joseph Alvinci's role in the Austrian army and his return to the battlefield is discussed. The Battle of Caldiero and its consequences for Napoleon's army are analyzed. The Battle of Arcollet and its strategic decisions are examined. The significance of the Battle of Arcole in Napoleon's career and his cult of personality is highlighted.

French Army pushes north to Germany, major battle at Bassano, worsening conditions in Mantua, young Austrian commander Archduke Charles, aftermath of battle and broader implications, troop deployments, Battle of Rovareto, Austrians reach Mantua and plan breakout, Battle of San Giorgio, embracing modern warfare

The podcast discusses the Army of Italy's tough fight to capture Montua, a significant stronghold. It explores the consequences of clashes, the power of field armies over fortresses, and the tactical advantages and disadvantages in the Battle of Castelione.

The Army of Italy defeats Beaulieu, takes a detour to confront the Pope, and Napoleon is reunited with Josephine. Corruption in the army is discussed, as well as the campaign to strip Italy of its cultural and intellectual wealth. Napoleon prepares for a new opponent.

Napoleon's conquest of Lombardy divides locals, as some radicals support the revolution while others are suspicious. Napoleon demands tribute and angers an old friend. Officers invest in jewel-encrusted watches. The podcast explores the contradiction between French ideals and realities of war and occupation. It also discusses the introduction of meritocracy and the impact of the Napoleonic era.

Napoleon's strategic brilliance is highlighted as he outmaneuvers the Austrians and captures Milan. The Battle of Lodi is explored, questioning its legendary status. The impact of the battle on Napoleon's career and the power of propaganda are also discussed.

Leaders of the Army of Italy, the adventures of fencing master Ojiro, Napoleon's strategy and his mentoring relationship with General Lan, the defeat of the Austrians and skirmishes with the Piedmontese, the battle of Dego and its aftermath, soldiers praised for their courage and continued offensive.

We meet the Army of Italy, which Napoleon finds in a "state of destitution." Paris provides little support, but Bonaparte attempts to get his command into shape for the offensive. We discuss more of the military reforms of the revolution. Napoleon gives the first famous speech of his career. The First Italian Campaign gets off to an inauspicious start. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For better and for worse, a new government takes over in Paris: the Directory. Napoleon and Josephine are married, and we examine her unhappy early life. Napoleon leaves Paris to meet his destiny. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An update from the armies at the front: French success continues in the Netherlands, and the long-suffering Dutch radicals finally have their day. In the South, the republicans push into Catalonia, knocking Spain out of the war, but at the cost of a general's life. Prussia finally wakes up and leaves the Coalition. In Paris, Napoleon's meteoric rise has officially begun. He shares the fruits of his success and continues his inept search for a wife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices